{in loving memory}

"Life is a journey, death is coming home." My Aunt CoyAnn quoted this at my Grandpa's funeral. She found the quote written in a notebook that my Grandfather had written in to speak at numerous funerals himself. I love it. Grandpa had one heck of a journey. He was a true cowboy, a hardworker, and a good friend. I miss him. But honestly I have missed him for a while. I haven't spent much time with Grandpa since I moved away to go to school, 10 years ago, time flies. The last time I visited Grandpa was over Thanksgiving weekend. We showed up with our whole family, all 3 kiddos. Grandpa met my Maggie girl for the first time, he held her. He was reintroduced to Thatch and Aly. Aly chattered away at him and told him stories. He sat queitly. He looked old. His walls were empty because he had recently asked to have all of his pictures taken down. He didn't talk much but listened and when I gave him a hug goodbye he seemed, for the first time in my entire existence, frail. Grandpa has always been anything but frail. He was fast and strong. When we got on the road to head southward I turned to Russ and said, "I think that is the last time I am going to see my Grandpa." It was bittersweet. I know that it must have been hard on him to have his body giving out in him, his mind not as clear. I know it was hard on me. The funeral was filled with memories of his life, funny stories, lessons he taught, and service that he gave. It was wonderful to remember. He had an incredible journey. Now he is home. What a sweet homecoming that must have been.

 

 

Glen Walter Thatcher

1931 ~ 2011

Glen Walter Thatcher, our beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on Thursday, January 27, 2011, in Payson, Utah, surrounded by his family. He was born on November 14, 1931, in West Mountain, Utah, to Walter Alva and Erma Hill Thatcher. He attended schools in Payson and graduated from Payson High School. He was a great athlete and held state records in track and was a star basketball player. He served his country in the Army during the Korean War.

Glen married Marilyn Adams on September 23, 1954, in the Manti LDS Temple. He later married Viola L. Peterson on June 24, 1978, in Las Vegas, Nevada, and they have enjoyed many wonderful years together. He worked for Safeway, Ray's Market, and the LDS Church. He bred, showed, and trained horses. He traveled all across the U.S. and into Canada with his horses. He was a true cowboy. Glen helped to organize the Wakara Riding Club.

A member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he served in many callings including a mission to The Great Lakes Mission, Bishoprics, Young Men, Sunday School, and a Church Service Mission. Glen was always serving those around him and was a perfect example of hard work and service. He loved his family and his horses. He will be greatly missed.

Glen is survived by his loving wife, Viola; and his children: Terry Lynn Warner, Mtn. Green, UT; Gary Thatcher, Salem, UT; Kevin Thatcher, Highland, UT; Gordon Thatcher, Thatcher, AZ; and CoyAnn Kilmer, Morgan, UT; two step-children: David DeGroot and Ronda Proctor. He also leaves behind 25 grandchildren and 29 great grandchildren; one brother: Reed Thatcher, and two sisters: Ruth Elmer and Vonda Hudson. He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter: Kathey; his children's mother; one brother: Nyle; and one sister: Norma Patten.

Funeral services will be on Monday, January 31, 2011, at 11:00 a.m. at the Salem 6th Ward Chapel, 470 East Salem Canal Road, Salem, Utah. Family and friends may call on Sunday evening, January 30, 2011, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at the Walker Funeral Home, 187 S. Main Street, Spanish Fork, Utah or on Monday morning at the church from 9:45-10:45 a.m. prior to services. Interment will be in the Salem City Cemetery.